6th United Nations World Data Forum 2026

Program overview

The 6th United Nations World Data Forum (UNWDF 2026) is taking place in Riyadh, bringing together representatives from governments, international organizations, academia, civil society, national statistical offices, and the private sector to discuss the future of data and its role in supporting policymaking and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Established by the United Nations in 2017, the UN World Data Forum is a high-level international platform dedicated to advancing data and statistics in response to global developments. It highlights the importance of statistical indicators in informing decision-making, shaping public policies, and supporting economic and sustainable development planning. Saudi Arabia's hosting of the sixth edition reflects the Kingdom's commitment to advancing international cooperation, strengthening strategic partnerships in data and statistics, and supporting the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. The forum will provide an international platform for knowledge exchange, sharing best practices, fostering innovation in data, and strengthening collaboration among stakeholders from around the world. Register Now Initiative: Road to Riyadh (R2R) As part of the preparations for the 6th United Nations World Data Forum 2026, the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) launched the "Road to Riyadh" program to promote awareness of the Kingdom's role in data and statistics and support knowledge exchange and international collaboration. The initiative featured a series of in-person and virtual sessions, seminars, and workshops held across several cities in the Kingdom throughout the year. The program reflects GASTAT's ongoing efforts to strengthen the Kingdom's position in the statistical field and support the development of data and statistical systems in line with the Sustainable Development Goals and Saudi Vision 2030.